Farm burning fuels smog risk as Bangkok’s PM2.5 levels rise ahead of winter – Nation Thailand

Air Quality Assessment in Bangkok: A Report on PM2.5 Levels

Current PM2.5 Concentrations by District

An analysis of Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) concentrations across various districts in Bangkok reveals a range of air quality levels. The following data points were recorded:

• Prawet: 35.5 µg/m³
• Lat Krabang: 35.1 µg/m³
• Bueng Kum: 33.4 µg/m³
• Bang Na: 29.2 µg/m³
• Pathumwan: 28.6 µg/m³
• Bang Rak: 28.5 µg/m³
• Ratchathewi: 28.4 µg/m³
• Khan Na Yao: 27.4 µg/m³
• Suan Serithai, Bueng Kum District: 26.5 µg/m³
• Bang Phlat: 26.0 µg/m³
• Wang Thonglang: 24.9 µg/m³
• Khlong Toei: 24.9 µg/m³

Regional Analysis and Urban Sustainability (SDG 11)

The data indicates a geographical disparity in air quality. The highest concentrations were observed in eastern Bangkok, with PM2.5 levels ranging from 18.8 to 35.5 µg/m³, categorized as “moderate.” In contrast, the northern, central, southern, and Thonburi zones recorded levels between 16 and 29 µg/m³, falling within the “good” air quality range. This variance underscores the challenges in achieving uniform environmental standards across the metropolitan area, a key component of Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), which aims to ensure cities are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

Outlook, Health Implications, and Sustainable Development Goals

Projected Increase in Air Pollution and Climate Factors (SDG 13)

Projections indicate a probable increase in PM2.5 levels with the onset of the cool season. This anticipated degradation in air quality is attributed to two primary factors: stagnant atmospheric conditions characteristic of the season and the continuation of agricultural burning. These factors highlight the intersection of air quality management with broader environmental patterns, linking local pollution events to regional climate conditions, a concern addressed by Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action).

Public Health Advisory and Alignment with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being)

In light of the projected increase in pollution, public health advisories are critical. The following recommendations have been issued, particularly for vulnerable populations such as individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions:

1. Regularly monitor official air quality updates.
2. Limit strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities during periods of high pollution.
3. Utilize protective masks when elevated PM2.5 levels are reported.

These preventative measures are essential for safeguarding public health and directly support the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), which seeks to reduce the number of illnesses and deaths from hazardous air pollution.

Addressing Root Causes: Agricultural Practices and SDG 15 (Life on Land)

The persistent issue of crop burning remains a significant contributor to seasonal air pollution. This practice not only impacts urban air quality but also relates to land management and agricultural sustainability. Addressing this root cause is fundamental to long-term air quality improvement and aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 15 (Life on Land), which promotes the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. Mitigating agricultural burning is therefore a critical step towards protecting both urban populations and the broader environment.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • The article directly connects air pollution to human health. It advises residents, “particularly those with respiratory or heart conditions, to monitor air quality updates regularly, limit outdoor activities, and wear protective masks when pollution levels climb.” This highlights the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being by addressing environmental health risks.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • The entire article focuses on the issue of air quality within an urban environment, Bangkok. It provides specific PM2.5 measurements for various districts like “Prawet: 35.5 µg/m³” and “Lat Krabang: 35.1 µg/m³”. This relates directly to the goal of making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable by managing urban environmental quality.

What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

1. Target 3.9: Substantially reduce deaths and illnesses from pollution

   • This target aims to “by 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.” The article’s focus on hazardous PM2.5 levels and the associated health warnings for people with “respiratory or heart conditions” directly aligns with the effort to mitigate illnesses caused by air pollution.

2. Target 11.6: Reduce the environmental impact of cities

   • This target is to “by 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality.” The article is a clear example of monitoring and reporting on urban air quality, which is a fundamental step in managing and reducing the environmental impact of the city of Bangkok.

Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

1. Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in cities

   • This is the most explicit indicator present in the article. The text is filled with specific measurements of fine particulate matter, such as “Prawet: 35.5 µg/m³,” “Lat Krabang: 35.1 µg/m³,” and “Bueng Kum: 33.4 µg/m³.” These data points are precisely what is used to calculate the annual mean levels of PM2.5 in a city, directly measuring progress towards Target 11.6.

2. Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution

   • While the article does not provide mortality statistics, it directly implies this indicator by discussing the health risks associated with ambient air pollution. The PM2.5 levels reported are the primary data used to assess the risk of illnesses and deaths mentioned in the indicator. The warning for individuals with “respiratory or heart conditions” underscores the link between the measured pollution and potential mortality.

Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: nationthailand.com